San Marcos, TX Trash & Recycling: Collection Schedule (2026)
Key Facts
- Set-out window
- 9 p.m. night before-7 a.m.
- Service scope
- Every residential unit
- Empty carts returned by
- 9 p.m. collection day
- Bulky/yard waste
- Call for special pickup
- Max fine
- $2,000, per-day offense
Summary
San Marcos provides residential solid waste collection through a city contractor to every residential unit, billed via the city utility account; multifamily complexes qualify only with city and contractor approval.
(a) Solid waste collection and disposal services will be provided by the city's contract solid waste service to: (1) Each residential unit; and (2) Each multifamily unit if approved under section 66.032... Bags and containers shall placed for collection between 9:00 p.m. the night preceding collection day and 7:00 a.m. of collection day and shall be placed as close to the roadway as practicable without interfering with vehicles or pedestrians.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 41).
Full Breakdown
Under Sec. 66.026, the city's contract hauler provides solid waste collection and single-stream recycling to every residential unit, with multifamily properties covered only if approved under Sec. 66.032. Residents set bags and carts out under Sec. 66.030: between 9:00 p.m. the night before and 7:00 a.m. on collection day, placed close to the roadway, and empty containers must be pulled back by 9:00 p.m. of collection day. Bulky waste, construction debris and yard waste go out only after residents call the city to schedule a special collection.
Violations & Fines
Violating placement, container, or collection rules is punishable under the Code's general penalty for public health and sanitation offenses: a fine up to $2,000, with each day a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
When must I put my trash cart out in San Marcos?
Is trash collection mandatory for San Marcos homes?
Can I put furniture or yard waste out with regular trash?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Marcos
Texas rules heatmap·Compare San Marcos to another location·View the Texas trash & recycling overview
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